Kareem Hunt might have found his next NFL opportunity.
The veteran running back visited the Detroit Lions on Tuesday, according to reports, as Detroit looks for help in a backfield that has suddenly become a little thin.
And the timing couldn’t be more interesting.
🏈 Why Are the Lions Looking at Hunt?
Detroit already has Jahmyr Gibbs at the top of its running-back room, but the depth behind him has taken some hits.
Isiah Pacheco is dealing with an MCL sprain, Sione Vaki has been dealing with a back issue, Jabari Small is in concussion protocol and Raheem Blackshear was placed on injured reserve.
Suddenly, bringing in an experienced veteran makes a lot of sense.
Enter Kareem Hunt.
💥 Hunt Still Has Something Left
Hunt isn’t the same explosive rookie who led the NFL with 1,327 rushing yards in 2017, but he showed last season that he can still contribute.
With the Kansas City Chiefs in 2025, Hunt recorded 611 rushing yards and eight touchdowns in 17 games, including four starts.
He’s also a proven short-yardage and goal-line option — something that could make him particularly useful behind Gibbs.
And there’s another interesting connection.
Hunt spent the 2025 season with Isiah Pacheco in Kansas City, so the Lions would potentially be bringing in a player who already knows one of the backs he’s competing with.
👀 Could Hunt Actually Sign?
That’s the big question.
A visit obviously doesn’t mean a deal is coming.
But Detroit wouldn’t be bringing Hunt in at this point in the preseason if the team wasn’t at least considering what he could bring.
The Lions need depth.
Hunt needs a team.
The timing could be perfect for both sides.
If Detroit signs him, Hunt could immediately enter the competition for the RB2 role behind Gibbs, particularly while the team’s other running backs work their way back from injuries.
🔥 This Could Be a Sneaky Good Move
At 31, Hunt isn’t being brought in to become the face of Detroit’s offense.
That’s Gibbs’ job.
But that’s exactly why this could work.
Hunt wouldn’t need 20 carries every Sunday. Detroit could use him in specific situations — short-yardage plays, goal-line opportunities and as an experienced backup if injuries continue to pile up.
And with the regular season getting closer, having an experienced NFL runner available could be valuable.
🤔 Where Does Hunt Go From Here?
For now, he’s still a free agent.
But the Lions have officially taken a look.
And if the visit goes well, don’t be surprised if Detroit decides that Hunt is worth bringing into the building.
The bigger question is whether Hunt can turn this visit into an NFL contract.
🏆 The Bottom Line
Kareem Hunt is looking for a new home, and the Detroit Lions might be giving him exactly the opportunity he’s been waiting for.
With injuries creating uncertainty behind Jahmyr Gibbs, Hunt’s experience could make him an attractive addition.
Could Kareem Hunt be the veteran piece Detroit needs before Week 1?
